De Karmeliet Restaurant. — Restaurant in Bruges

The Flanders Culinary Art Center in Brugge is a unique educational institution that combines the art of gastronomy with essential management skills. Situated in the historical city of Bruges, the center offers a specialisation in Culinary Arts.

The center’s mission is to empower chefs by enhancing their natural talent for gastronomy with a solid foundation in management, preparing them for a successful career in the hospitality and gastronomy sectors1

We were a group of people of different nations belonging to a international organisation. We had the honor of being hosted by the Belgian EU presidency and Iota team for an exclusive gastronomic journey. Dining at the Flanders Culinary Art Center in Brugge is an experience that goes beyond mere gastronomy. It’s a journey through the rich tapestry of Flemish cuisine, presented with a modern twist. The center, known for its educational prowess, also showcases its culinary expertise in a dining setting that is both elegant and welcoming.

The dining experience commenced with an array of starters, featuring the delicate flavors of smoked eel, a crispy rice concoction, and a savory Parmesan creation paired with Iberico ham, all artistically arranged to resemble a bird’s nest.

The third course was a delightful crab and coulis salad, offering a burst of freshness as the crab was thoughtfully placed within a crisp salad leaf. Following this was the fourth dish, a sea bass paired with Vin Jaune, which was executed to perfection, its skin retaining a desirable crunch. However, the highlight for me was the fifth course, a sublime Turbot served with a zesty lemon butter sauce and delicate grey shrimps. The Turbot’s flavor was exceptional, and the lemon butter provided an exquisite twist that harmonized beautifully with both the wine and the fish. The sixth course featured a chicken breast prepared sous-vide at 65°C for over two hours, resulting in a fillet that was remarkably tender, moist, and flavorful.

For dessert, a mango passionfruit and chocolate mousse creation was presented, striking an excellent balance between fruitiness and chocolate, light enough to be refreshing. The meal concluded with coffee, accompanied by an assortment of confections, including a macaron and various petite pastries. Each dish was complemented by a carefully selected wine or, for a unique twist, a tart Geuze beer.

All in all, the menu is a reflection of the seasons, featuring locally-sourced ingredients that are transformed into exquisite dishes by the skilled hands of the future stars of the culinary world. Each course is a testament to the meticulous training and creativity fostered within the center’s walls. From the delicate amuse-bouche to the perfectly balanced main courses and the refreshing desserts, every bite is a celebration of flavor and technique.

The service is impeccable, with students displaying professionalism and a keen understanding of hospitality. Especially our student Max from the Netherlands was a highlight. He showed this perfect mixture of professionalism and easy going young student attitude. He made the MAXimum us feel great. The ambiance during the dining was great thanks to Max  the dining room, often filled with the soft clinking of glasses and the murmur of satisfied diners, complements the culinary delights.

It’s not just a dinner; it’s an educational display of culinary artistry that leaves a lasting impression. For those passionate about food and eager to witness the future of gastronomy, a visit to the Flanders Culinary Art Center’s dining room is a must. The place deserves my full recommendation...

My wife and I had an unforgettable dining experience at De Karmeliet. The food was exquisite, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. The atmosphere was elegant yet welcoming, perfect for a special night out. The staff were attentive and made us feel truly valued. It was a perfect evening, we can’t wait...

Amazing place run by culinary art students! Great food, great wine! Kind,...